Child Abuse Reporting Training
The primary reason for reporting child abuse is to rescue a child from the potentiality of hurt, harm and danger. Child abuse not only affects the child, but also the entire community. Therefore, it is the responsibility of every individual who suspects child abuse to report it to the appropriate authorities.
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Training
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Individuals interested in training for child abuse reporting can take a mini-course at a small community college or local child agency or an online course such as Mandated Reporter Training. The course is usually 60 to 90 minutes, self-paced and interactive. A pre-test and post-test, consisting of 13 questions, must be completed in order to obtain a certificate of completion.
Types
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Child abuse reporting training begins by teaching individuals how to identify the types of child abuse, such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and neglect. Physical abuse may be occurring when unexplained bruises, cuts and scars appear on parts of a child's body. Sexual abuse is likely to be happening when a child shows an unusual inclination toward sexual activities at an inappropriate age. A child may have a problem touching others indecently or displaying the private parts of her own body. Emotional abuse may be occurring when a child is withdrawn and shows low self-esteem. Signs of neglect may be occurring when a child's hygiene or clothing becomes an issue.
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Causes
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Individuals interested in child abuse reporting training learn about the possible causes that lead to child abuse. A number of conditions can lead to child abuse, such as domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse, undiagnosed mental illness, overwhelming stress, strong-willed children and poor parenting skills. These situations represent an uncontrolled environment, a condition in which all levels of abuse can occur. Individuals with an understanding of causes are in position to suggest some kind of preventive information to the authorities or to possible abusers.
Recognition
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Child abuse reporting training also involves recognizing signs of child abuse wherever it may occur. For example, signs of abuse can be suspected when a child is too passive or aggressive or hostile toward teachers and classmates. This might mean that emotional abuse is occurring at home. Also when a child is always fearful and afraid of everyone, including his parents or guardians, some form of abuse could be happening within the child's life. Recognizing these signs and others could help deliver a child from a terrifying life.
Reporting
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Child abuse training teaches individuals how to contact the appropriate authorities when abuse is suspected. For example, individuals can contact the Department of Human Services or other small agencies within the community that manage child-related programs. The National hotline as of 2010 is (800) 4ACHILD or (800-422-4453). Individuals should call immediately if child abuse is expected. This rapid response could prevent further abuse of that child.
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References
- Photo Credit child image by Vaida from Fotolia.com
